subject: Hiring A Rat Pack Tribute Show - Ten Mistakes To Avoid [print this page] Here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid when booking a Rat Pack tribute show:
1. The talent and character portrayal not up to par - This is an easy one to avoid, but the tricky part is avoiding the temptation of lower pricing.
2. Their marketing is unprofessional Not the deadliest of sins, but this is your first clue to problems down the road. If their follow-up is slow, their marketing materials and collateral kind of cheesy, or their website looks like a 6th grader put it together, you may want to take a pass. How you do anything is how you do everything.
3. Inexperienced performers - If the show youre considering doesnt have a long client list, plenty of testimonials, or references, perhaps they are not that experienced. Let them learn on someone elses dime. One possible exception: If they really seem fabulous, and you have a tiny budget and not a lot at stake, it may be a wise compromise.
4. Last-minute substitutions that are not up to par We all know that life happens, but like any professional production there are understudies and substitute performers who are well trained and talented that should be available. Particularly in the case of a Rat Pack show, where the three principals are vital to the success of the show.
5. Theyre not flexible or adaptable Not every situation is the same, and quite frequently some flexibility is required for some aspect of the engagement. Most situations can be dealt with in a creative and professional manner, so any excessive complaining, whining or diva-like behavior should raise some red flags.
6. Not getting everything in writing - Clarity is power, so get everything in writing, including logistics, pricing and payment, hidden charges, travel, dressing room, riders, contingencies, show requirements, venue requirements, meals, props, etc.
7. Show isnt appropriate to the audience Different strokes for different folks, and youll want to make sure ahead of time that the show is tailored to the crowd. Although a Rat Pack show may be a bit racey in the nightclub environment, it should be squeaky clean for the corporate event
8. Youre not clear on communicating your needs How you want the show run is actually in your hands. It is up to you as the client to tell the group what you need, what you dont want to happen, and how they could accommodate your preference without compromising the entertainment the show has to offer.
9. Rehearsal time for the musicians included in fee - Not a problem if they bring their own recorded music (their playback needs should be in the rider), or if theyre using a live band, they bring charts and include rehearsal time for the musicians in their fee.
10. You can use their promotional materials Performers should have promo materials for your use, such as posters, images, videos. Many have press rooms or media rooms on their websites. Also, see if they will assist in promotion via media interviews or promoting to their database.
Any one of these 10 mistakes could derail a wonderful Rat Pack tribute show, so consider all of the above when booking your show. This will not be a problem when dealing with experienced professionals, like Art Poco of The Rat Pack Now, 954-441-2629. http://www.RatPackTributeShowNow.com
